Veggie Gratin

Essential Everyday

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 (16 ounce) package frozen California Blend vegetables, thawed

1 (8 ounce) package fancy cut Colby Jack cheese, divided

½ cup half and half

¼ cup Italian style bread crumbs

Cooking spray

In large saucepan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onions, peppers, garlic and Italian seasoning; salt and pepper to taste. Saute until onions are softened (about 3-5 minutes).

Behold! The flavoring.

Stir in vegetables; continue sauteing until heated through (about 5 minutes). Stir in 1 cup cheese and half & half; continue cooking until cheese is melted, stirring constantly.

Transfer to a greased 2-quart baking dish. Top with remaining cheese; sprinkle with bread crumbs. Generously spray bread crumbs with cooking spray.

Bake in a preheated 375F oven 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Pops, doesn't it?

My Rating: 4/5 "This is a nice veggie-based comfort dish. It resembles a nice baked mac and cheese in its appearance and to an extent in its texture. A titch more spice would make it more memorable, but as-is it's a nice accompaniment."